The war council adjourned shortly after Julius's final words, the grand chamber emptying swiftly yet orderly as generals and advisors raced off to begin the mighty machine of war he had set in motion.
Elheat was the first to leave, his purpose clear, the Iron Cavalry would be prepared for their rapid departure by sunset.
He offered Julius a crisp salute before striding away, barking orders to his aides with the sharpness of a man about to ride into legend.
One by one, the others followed — Miri overseeing the treasury releases, Zeff tightening the internal security to prevent spies or saboteurs from learning of the army's movements, and Serena herself retreating into the imperial war offices to begin coordinating supply trains and draft orders should they become required.
For the first time in days, Julius found himself alone once more.
The halls of the Eternal City beyond the palace windows beckoned.
